Acorns are what we call our infants and toddlers in the Junior Gathering Program. Click the links in the menu below to learn about this group.

The youngest among us spend their mornings pretty much as they would if they were at home. Our experienced staff will see to it that each child's needs are met on the schedule that works best for that family. Feeding, diapering, napping, nurturing and comforting make up the bulk of the morning and evening. We strive for a 1:1 child to care-giver ratio for those under one year of age.

While we provide care in the evenings, some families choose to have an earlier bedtime or to keep their little ones with them during their evening activities.

Toddlers have a 2:1 child to caregiver ratio and spend their mornings in a variety of spirited indoor and outdoor activities, such as water play, ball play, and tricycle (car, fire engine!) riding. Indoors toddlers will sing songs, hear stories, and play together.

Toddlers partake in a healthy snack, typically fresh locally grown fruit (when possible), fruit juice, cheese and crackers. Those toddlers who still take a morning nap will be accommodated.

While we provide care in the evenings, some families choose to have an earlier bedtime or to keep their little ones with them during their evening activities.

Preparation

Before Gathering

Help us prepare to give your child the best possible week by sharing with us:

joys

struggles

achievements

challenges and/or

recent significant changes in your child's life.

Indicate these on your Parental Release form or by email to patsym@fgcquaker.org. You can rest assured that your child is being cared for lovingly as you attend your morning workshop or evening plenary.

Carefully read your confirmation email and the mailing from Junior Gathering in early June. (JG Times & a letter from your child’s group leader)

After April 1, 2015 check out the Junior Gathering FAQs on our website.

Connect with other parents who have gone to Gathering before

A typical family day:

7:00-8:30 AM Breakfast

8:45-12 noon Junior Gathering Morning Program (Parents in Workshops)

12:00-1:30 PM Lunch

1:30-5:00 PM Afternoon Family Time options include:

Our Family Place: 1:30 - 4:30

MultiGen activities

Field Trips

Make your own plans

5:00-6:30 PM Dinner

6:45-9:00 PM Junior Gathering Evening Program (Parents at Plenaries)

9:15 PM Bedtime for little ones with cooperative childcare in the dorm so parents can go to Late Night Sings, Films, or Contra Dance.

What's the difference between Toddlers and Preschoolers? Or how do you tell an Acorn from a Pinecone?

We will rely heavily on your opinion for determining whether your child is a Toddler or a Preschooler. Typically the preschool group will be doing activities that require more small and large motor skills, a longer attention span, and more interaction with other children. Pinecones are usually 3 to 5 year olds, while Toddlers are 2 and 3 year olds. If you have a question, please contact the Junior Gathering Coordinator.

Open House: Sunday evening after dinner for all children up to those who have finished 5th grade ( Acorns, Pinecones, Sprouts, Saplings & Pinetrees). This is a time for you and your child to come and get acquainted with the caregivers / staff and the other children. Coordinators will discuss their plans and expectations for the week. Parents and/or Responsible Parties will be asked to list those adults who have permission to sign out their child. If permission has not been granted, your child will not be released. If you forget to share special needs with us ahead of time, Open House is a good time to share dietary or other needs with the Group Coordinator.

Help us prepare to give your child the best possible week by sharing with us dietary needs, joys, struggles, achievements, challenges and/or recent significant changes in your child's life. You can indicate these on your Parental Release form or by email to patsym@fgcquaker.org.